Does your basement feel confining, cramped and claustrophobic? The low ceiling and dark corners of a basement can be a challenge. Don’t despair! With a few changes you can make your subterranean space feel like a cozy retreat. Trick your eye into perceiving more space by trying the following techniques. Use light colours and contrast: Light walls (off-white, light green, …
There is something fundamental about the urge to store food in the fall. We see it in many animals and we feel it ourselves! The cold room is the answer to this impulse. A cold room is a cool subterranean space, usually located in the basement, ideal for storage of vegetables, fruits, nuts, preserves, beverages, and bulk purchases. It’s an …
Do you find yourself tripping over toys or constantly reminding the kids to pick them up and put them away? If you have an unfinished basement then you have an answer to the toy dilemma! Transform that dank dungeon into a bright play space. Give your kids a place to play, create, run off energy and host sleepovers. It’s easier …
Though we spend time and effort planning the layout and look of our home, basement stairs are often overlooked in the design process. Most basement stairways are dark, enclosed hallways devoid of interest and decoration! The simple action of removing the door and opening the enclosed stairway can produce a light, airy feel and create a number of design options. …
It’s the middle of the night and your teen is asleep in a basement bedroom. Faulty wiring leads to a fire in the dining room on the upper floor of your home. Within three minutes, heat from the fire causes everything in the room to burst into flames. Clouds of thick black smoke curl through the house and poisonous gases …
You’ve decided to renovate your basement. How you develop the space will affect the type of flooring you choose. Will you create a cozy playroom, family games room or guest bedroom? A carpet would work for these areas. Are you planning a home gym? Try rubber mats. Will you need a home office? Laminate might be nice. No matter how …
Is your basement a dumping ground for seldom used sports gear, outdated furniture, an overflow of books, infrequently used toys, Christmas decorations and family memorabilia? Do you spend hours of time trying to locate an object you know is somewhere in the jumble? The following suggestions will help you maximize and organize your basement storage. Clear the clutter: Before you …
If you’re planning to renovate your basement, a fireplace is a great idea! It can make up for the lack of natural light, create a cozy retreat, add atmosphere to your room, supply a comfortable source of heat, provide a focal point in your basement space, and increase your home’s value. No flue or chimney in place? No problem! Thanks …
Would you like the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your kids are in a safe, controlled environment? Do you want to spend more time with your family? Would you like to invite friends over to watch the big game or play ping pong? It may be time to transform your unfinished basement into a games room. A …
Finishing your basement can add extra living space to your home. You can create a guest bedroom, a home theater or a craft nook. Add a home gym, a games room, an office or wine storage. Think about the possibility of a man cave, designer laundry room, sauna, or another bathroom. How about an in-law suite or a rental unit? …
